Pirate Ship by Day

Planning a day out at sea in Puerto Vallarta? The Pirate Ship by Day tour offers a lively blend of adventure, entertainment, and scenic beauty aboard a 700-ton galleon. While it’s definitely geared toward family fun and those who enjoy a splash of theatricality, this tour also packs plenty of water-based activities and tasty food options. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, activity, and a dash of pirate-themed excitement.

What we love about this experience is its family-friendly vibe and the chance to enjoy semi-private island visits away from the crowds. Plus, the onboard pirate show and variety of water activities make it appealing for travelers seeking both entertainment and active fun. A possible drawback? The pricing of $280 per person might seem steep for some, especially considering that some reviews mention long lines and mixed service quality. But overall, this tour is best suited for families, groups, or anyone looking for a lively, all-in-one day out on the water in Puerto Vallarta.

Key Points

• Family-friendly fun with pirate shows and interactive activities.
• Multiple water activities including snorkeling, kayaking, and a banana ride.
• Delicious food options with nine different choices and an open bar.
• Visits to Majahuitas ecological reserve offer a peaceful escape from crowded spots.
• Entertainment onboard with contests, awards, and a pirate-themed show.
• Start early at 9:30 am and expect about 6 hours of lively activities.

A Complete Look at the Pirate Ship by Day Experience

The Setting: A Galleon at Sea

Starting on a 700-ton replica galleon, this tour is visually striking. The ship’s size promises a stable, spacious platform suited for families and groups. The day kicks off with a welcome by pirates, setting the tone for a fun-filled, theatrical experience. The atmosphere is lively, with music, special effects, and an overall sense of adventure that makes it stand out from more sedate boat trips.

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour departs at 9:30 am from the Puerto Vallarta port area, a location near public transportation and accessible for most travelers. You’ll start by sailing out to Majahuitas ecological reserve, a protected area where you can enjoy nature without the usual crowds. The journey itself is part of the charm—sailing across calm waters, enjoying the breeze, and taking in views of the bay.

Once at Majahuitas Island, about which many reviews speak positively, you’ll find a peaceful, semi-private beach ideal for relaxing or engaging in water activities. The beach and sea options include snorkeling in clear waters, kayaking, and even a banana ride—a fun way to splash around. Kids especially loved the beach volleyball and treasure hunt, which adds a playful touch to the visit.

The Food and Drinks: A Highlight

One aspect that visitors frequently praise is the delicious food. The tour offers nine different menu options—a notable feature for a day at sea. While some reviews hint at an extension of costs for extra items, the selection is varied enough to satisfy most tastes. The all-you-can-drink open bar adds a relaxed, festive feel, making it easy to enjoy cold drinks while soaking up the sun or watching the pirate show.

Entertainment: Pirates and More

The onboard entertainment is lively and designed to keep the energy high. Guests are treated to a pirate show that combines music, theatrical effects, and humor. Plus, there are contests and awards, making the experience interactive. For children and families, this is a highlight—“my kids loved the act they put on,” reports one reviewer. The pintacaritas (face painting) and pirate-themed activities further engage young travelers and add a whimsical touch to the day.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 250 travelers, the ship offers a sense of camaraderie without feeling overly crowded. The reviews suggest a generally friendly and attentive crew, although some mention long wait times during check-in (up to 1.5 hours). The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you a full six hours of water, food, and fun.

What Do the Reviews Say?

While most reviews are positive, some travelers express mixed experiences. For example, one reviewer emphasizes the great time their family had, highlighting the pirate Pepe as attentive and the beach activities as a highlight. They appreciated the variety of entertainment and food, calling it a “really fun experience for families.”

Another reviewer, however, gave a less favorable account, criticizing the responsiveness of the staff during emergencies. It’s a reminder that, like many group tours, service quality can vary, and it’s worth being aware of the overall tone of the experience.

The food is a recurring highlight—several mention the variety and quality—making it clear that this tour offers more than just water fun. The pirate show and activities also seem to resonate well with families, with many reviewers recommending it for children.

The Downside

Some travelers mention long check-in lines and additional costs for extras like photos or small fees, which can add up. Also, the price point ($280 per person) is on the higher side, particularly when considering the optional extras or if you’re not looking for a full day of water activities and entertainment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience appeals most to families with children, thanks to its playful pirate theme and variety of water activities. It also suits groups looking for a fun, social day out with plenty of entertainment and good food. If you’re someone who appreciates a themed experience and enjoys active water pursuits, you’ll likely find this tour satisfying.

However, those seeking a more relaxed, cultural, or less commercialized adventure might prefer quieter, more intimate boat trips or visits to natural reserves without the theatrical flair.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying Your Day

• Arrive early to avoid long lines during check-in—some reviews mention waiting up to 1.5 hours.
• Choose your food options in advance if possible, to streamline the experience.
• Bring sun protection and water shoes—the activities involve sand, water, and often, rocky or coral areas.
• Don’t forget your snorkel gear if you have your own; although equipment is usually provided, bringing your preferred gear can enhance your experience.
• Be prepared for a lively atmosphere—this tour is energetic and fun, but not the best fit if you prefer a quiet, laid-back day.
• Consider the price in context: the full package includes meal, drinks, entertainment, and activities—an all-in-one experience that can be a good value if you’re seeking variety.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For families and groups craving a full day of water-based fun, entertainment, and good food, the Pirate Ship by Day offers a memorable adventure. The combination of scenic sailing, active beach days, and theatrical pirate shows makes it a lively, family-friendly option that’s sure to entertain kids and adults alike.

The highlight for many is the variety of water activities—snorkeling, kayaking, and banana rides—paired with the satisfying buffet and open bar. The pirate show and face-painting add a whimsical touch that appeals to children and those young at heart.

However, it’s important to weigh the price against what’s included and be prepared for potential waits and extras. If you like organized, lively tours with a splash of theatrical fun and don’t mind the crowd, this could be a highlight of your Puerto Vallarta trip.

This tour is best suited for families, groups, or anyone looking for a lively, engaging day out at sea, blending fun, food, and entertainment in a scenic setting. If you’re after a relaxing cultural experience, you might want to explore other options, but if fun and adventure are your goals, this pirate-themed day is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation or pick-up services are not included. You’ll need to make your way to the meeting point near the port area in Puerto Vallarta.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:30 am, so plan to arrive on time to avoid missing any part of the fun.

How long is the tour?
Expect approximately 6 hours of sailing, activities, and entertainment, ending back at the port.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is very family-friendly, with pirate shows, face painting, and kid-oriented activities like treasure hunts.

Are the water activities safe?
Water activities such as snorkeling and kayaking are included, and equipment is provided. Always follow crew instructions and wear safety gear.

Can I buy extra items on board?
Yes, some reviews mention additional costs for photos or marine fees. Food and drinks are included, but extras like photos may incur charges.

This lively, well-organized pirate adventure in Puerto Vallarta offers a great mix of fun, food, and scenic sailing. It’s an excellent choice for families, groups, and anyone wanting a memorable, active day on the water.